October 2026
Hiffman National’s Carrie Szarzynski on Property Management as a Profit Center
From “Hiffman National’s Carrie Szarzynski on Property Management as a Profit Center | Nareit”
Carrie Szarzynski, Executive Managing Director at Hiffman National, joined a sponsored episode of the REIT Report podcast to discuss how property management can operate as a vital profit center to create growth in today’s market.
Hiffman National is one of the nation’s largest independent commercial real estate property management firms, providing institutional and private clients with customized solutions for property management, project management, property accounting, lease administration, marketing, and research.
Operational excellence has emerged as a critical factor in dictating performance across various property types, Szarzynski notes, and stresses the importance of managing assets thoughtfully, moving beyond merely collecting rent. “It’s about thinking like an asset manager.”
This approach includes identifying low-cost improvements that enhance tenant satisfaction and engagement. For instance, she recounts a successful case where Hiffman National helped a client identify adjustments that quadrupled their initial expectations without impacting tenant experience.
In today’s high-mobility environment, retaining tenants is more crucial than ever. Szarzynski points out that tenants are more inclined to stay put if they feel valued and heard. “It’s that manager touch that makes all the difference.”
Szarzynski explains how understanding tenant usage patterns can inform property management strategies. “What do they need and how are they using it?” This insight can ultimately lead to increased retention and improved net operating income.
To maximize asset performance, she recommends tracking renewal rates and understanding tenant needs and engagement. “Every owner should be partnering with someone that is a true partner,” she stresses.
Listen to the full podcast here.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
About NAI Hiffman:
NAI Hiffman is one of the largest independent commercial real estate services firms in the US, with a primary focus on metropolitan Chicago, and part of the NAI Global network. We provide institutional and private leasing, property management, tenant representation, capital markets, project services, research, and marketing services for owners and occupiers of commercial real estate. To meet our clients’ growing needs outside of our exclusive NAI Hiffman territory, we launched Hiffman National, our dedicated property solutions division, which provides property management, project services, and property accounting services across the country. NAI Hiffman | Hiffman National is an award winning company headquartered in suburban Chicago, with more than 275 employees strategically located throughout North America.
About Hiffman National:
Hiffman National is one of the US’s largest independent commercial real estate property management firms, providing institutional and private clients exceptional customized solutions for property management, project management, property accounting, lease administration, marketing, and research. The firm’s comprehensive property management platform and attentive approach to service contribute to successful life-long relationships and client satisfaction. As a nationally bestowed Top Workplace, and recognized CRE award winner, Hiffman National is headquartered in suburban Chicago, with more than 275 employees nationally and an additional six hub locations and 25 satellite offices across North America.
